The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has clarified that the withdrawal of criminal charges against the Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, reflects his office’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law.
In a statement released on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Communication and Publicity in the AGF’s office, Kamarudeen Ogundele, the AGF emphasized his constitutional authority to enter a nolle prosequi—a legal move to discontinue prosecution—when it is necessary to prevent a miscarriage of justice.
The statement noted:
“The decision followed a careful review of the case, which revealed that Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe was neither the account officer nor the Managing Director at the time the alleged fraudulent account was opened. There was no direct link connecting her to the charges.”
While the charges against Onyeali-Ikpe have been dropped, the statement clarified that Fidelity Bank as an institution remains subject to ongoing legal proceedings.
“This does not absolve Fidelity Bank of the allegations still before the court. The Attorney General’s move is a demonstration of his responsibility to ensure that justice is served without bias,” it added.
The public was urged to respect the legal process and avoid speculation. The AGF reiterated his commitment to ensuring that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law, reinforcing accountability and deterrence.